If you’re planning to sell your home in the near future, it might be tempting to leave repairs and upgrades for the next owner. But neglecting maintenance in the weeks and months leading up to your sale could have some major consequences.
Minor issues, such as broken doorknobs or chipped paint, can leave a bad impression on buyers. Even worse, minor issues can turn into big problems if they’re not taken care of. If a major repair is needed at the wrong time, it could derail your closing or drastically impact your sale price. If you want to sell soon, here is a quick list of home maintenance tasks to perform ahead of time:
Service Your Heating System
If you’re selling soon, we recommend a thorough cleaning and servicing of your heating system from top to bottom. Have your furnace, ductwork, and chimney inspected and serviced. Replace filters and clean out all your vents. Major issues with your heating system will have buyers quickly running in the opposite direction.
Schedule A Roof Inspection
Your roof should be inspected at least once a year, but definitely before listing your home. Minor roofing problems are notorious for compounding into larger issues when left untreated. If you’re experiencing any leaks or notice any warped or cracked shingles, you’ll want to make the necessary repairs as soon as possible. If you need a replacement, keep in mind that a new roof is a big selling point, and you’ll be able to recover costs in your sale price.
Maintain Your Landscaping
Your landscaping has a major impact on your curb appeal, which is a term used to describe how your home appears from street view. Curb appeal is important because it attracts buyer attention in your listing photos and is also the first thing shoppers see when pulling up to your home. Make sure your lawn is treated and trim all shrubs and trees. Also, make sure your driveway and walkways are well maintained.
Wash Your Windows
Light exposure is an important part of the home staging process, so you should expect your windows to be visible when buyers are touring your home. Be sure to thoroughly clean them and remove any dirt, grime, or muck prior to listing your property.
Resolve Any Plumbing Issues
Plumbing issues can range from leaky faucets to major pipe cracks in the basement. Either way , they’re likely driving up your water bill and potentially causing mold growth. Buyers will be quick to notice any extra water in the basement, which is often a major warning sign. If notice any signs of leaks, be sure to have a plumber come take a look.
Cosmetic Upgrades
To sell your home fast, you’ll want it to shine inside and out. If your home has worn carpet, chipped tiles, peeling paint, fixing these items can go a long way. A home with a “lived-in look can be very unappealing, so you’ll want to really pay attention to minor cosmetic details.
Investing in a home that you want to sell might seem counterintuitive, but major problems can lead buyers to pull out at the last minute. By taking care of some basic home maintenance tasks ahead of time, you can help ensure a smooth and successful closing. Check out Key Realty NEO if you are ready to sell!